Holly MatkinPrince William County, VA – DC Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Officer Nelson Casillas died in a two-vehicle motorcycle crash on June 7.
The 31-year-old officer was off-duty in Virginia when the fatal wreck occurred, WUSA reported.
According to the Virginia State Police (VSP), Officer Casillas was riding his Honda CBR1000RR motorcycle northbound on the Interstate 95 access lanes near Exit 156 to Dale City when he collided with a crash cushion on the exit ramp at approximately 1 p.m., WRC reported.
The VSP said Officer Casillas was ejected from the motorcycle during the crash and subsequently hit the back of a northbound SUV that was traveling in the right exit lane, according to WUSA.
The officer succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, WUSA reported.
The VSP said Officer Casillas was speeding when the wreck occurred.
The driver of the SUV was not injured in the collision, according to WRC.
The MPD confirmed the veteran officer’s death in a tweet later that day.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ofc. Nelson Casillas, an 8-year member with MPD, who was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident earlier today in Virginia,” the department said. “Our heartfelt sympathies are with his family & friends during this difficult time.”
Officer Casillas leaves behind his wife, Valeria, and his daughters, Cataleya and Daniela, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents and two sisters.
Officer Casillas’ family described him as fearless, honest, selfless, brave, caring, and protective, according to his obituary.
“He had an amazing and joyful heart of gold and it was evident when he stepped into a room and absolutely lit it up with his contagious smile and radiating kindness,” the tribute read.
Officer Casillas will be laid to rest on June 14.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ofc. Nelson Casillas, an 8-year member with MPD, who was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident earlier today in Virginia. Our heartfelt sympathies are with his family & friends during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/s3ksTjYoiQ
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) June 8, 2023
With heavy hearts, we regret to announce that Second District Officer Nelson Casillas was involved in a serious vehicle accident earlier this evening. Unfortunately, Officer Casillas suffered fatal injuries and has passed. Please keep the officer and his family in your thoughts. pic.twitter.com/rGJ8XXMNpC
— DC Police Union (@DCPoliceUnion) June 8, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of DC Metropolitan Police Department Officer Nelson Casillas, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
